Non-Traditional Academic Programs

The non-traditional academic programs at Bernards High School are designed to extend the learning opportunities beyond the coursework offered in the standard curriculum.

Service Learning (03500-03503)

Grade 9-12

Credit Value: .25 per year

Prerequisite: None

Bernards High School recognizes the need to develop in students a sense of social responsibility in addition to a commitment to their academic and co-curricular endeavors. By providing students with numerous opportunities for service to their community we believe that we will help students to achieve their full potential as active and productive members of their society. All students earn and receive one (1) credit for performing 40 hours of service learning during their four year high school career. Students are required to complete ten (10) hours of service per year.

Vocational/Technical High School (AM-03510/PM-03511)

Grade 9-12

Credit Value: 15.0

Prerequisite: None

The Somerset County Vocational and Technical High School enrolls students from county high schools on both a shared-time and full-time basis. Ninth grade students enroll on a shared-time basis in a Freshmen Career Exploration Program. These students rotate through several shop areas to explore before a choice is made. 10th through 12th grade students enroll on a full-time or shared-time basis in a Regular Career Preparation Program. These students enroll in a three-year curriculum in a single shop area for sequential information and skill development.

Study Skills (03520)

Full-Year Course; Level - Academic; Grade 9-12

Credit Value: 5.0

Prerequisite: CST Recommendation

This course is designed to meet the needs of special education students requiring instruction and support with regard to general study skills. This course is intended to provide review and reinforcement in content area coursework, instruction in study methods and strategies, promotion of independent organizational and time management skills, and academic self-advocacy. A small group setting allows for individualized instruction in order to meet the individualized learning goals of the students.

Leadership Development & College Readiness (04100)

Semester Course; Level - Academic; Grade 12

Credit Value: 2.5

Prerequisite: None

The Leadership Development and College Readiness course is geared to assist students prepare for the rest of their lives. In addition to a leadership development component and a series of presentations by business and community leaders, students will work closely with a Guidance Counselor on navigating the college application and selection process. There will be considerable writing expectations as students work on college essays, compile research on potential college options, complete personal learning style and aptitude surveys, and present an oral report to the class on a profession of their choosing. The course will be taken for credit towards graduation, but will not be factored into the GPA.

ELL Integrated Math (03226)

Full-Year Course; Level - Academic; Grade 9-12

Credit Value: 5.0

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

ELL Integrated math is a full-year course in which students who are new the country and are not yet proficient in English will receive instruction in basic mathematical skills. Students will work on various levels of basic math concepts in order to prepare them for eventual entry into Algebra I.

ELL Integrated Science/Social Studies (03228/03227)

Full-Year Course; Level - Academic; Grade 9-12

Credit Value: 5.0

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

ELL Integrated Science/Social Studies is a full-year course in which students who are new to the country and are not yet proficient in English will receive instruction in basic Science and Social Studies. The class will rotate, veering social studies and science each day in order to build English proficiency in both content areas. Students will work on developing skills that will prepare them for eventual entry into Biology and World History.

ELL Transitional Skills (03229)

Full-Year Course; Level - Academic; Grade 9-12

Credit Value: 5.0

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

ELL Transitional Skills is a full year course in which students who are new to the country and are not yet proficient in English will focus on post-secondary transition skills, whether it be vocational or educational. The course will feature activities that focus on preparing students for future careers including a simulated “job search” involving writing resumes, cover letters, and participating in mock employment.